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Nizhoni Campground sits in the Manti-LaSal National Forest in southeast Utah, at the foot of the Abajo Mountains.
Popular activities include hiking, wildlife viewing and off-road vehicle riding. Several trailheads are nearby, including Shay Ridge, Aspen Flat and Red Ledges.
The Abajo Loop State Scenic Backway passes by the campground. It leads from the desert floor and red rock canyons to steep mountains over 10,000 feet high, with overlooks and panoramic views. The byway is suitable for passenger vehicles from late spring through fall but is not recommended for large RVs.
The campground contains two group sites that each accommodate up to 50 guests. Several single-family sites are available as well. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided, as are vault toilets and drinking water seasonally. Firewood may be collected in and around the campground. Roads and parking spurs are gravel. There is a 14 day stay limit at this campground.
Towering Ponderosa pines forest the site, offering partial shade. Gambel oaks and sagebrush dot the landscape. The campground sits at an elevation of 7,000 feet, and summer temperatures range from 80-90 degrees during the day and 55-65 degrees at night.
Mule deer, wild turkeys, Abert's squirrels and the occasional black bear may be seen in the area.
Other attractions in the area include Canyonlands, Arches and Mesa Verde National Parks, Dark Canyon Wilderness, Edge of the Cedars State Park, Lake Powell and numerous archaeological sites.
From Blanding, Utah, travel north on Highway 191 approximately two miles. Turn left on E. Pinion Ridge Road (National Forest Access sign: Dry Wash Reservoir) and proceed 3/4-mile to the stop sign. Turn right on Forest Road 079 and continue approximately 10 miles to the campground on the right side of the road.
I love camping there. It's quiet and so beautiful. I love that you're in the pines and have a bathroom and running water.
We rented 1 of the 2 group campsites for our small elopement and it was perfect. ❤️
The grounds were clean, the camp host cleaned and restocked the restrooms several times a day. There is also running water. Plenty of room for multiple camp trailers, and still plenty of room for the toys. We visit the same camping spot every year, going on 10 years now. Look forward to it every year.
One of my favorite places to go hike, camp and explore. Best view of bears ears hands down. Dog friendly as well.
